Footnotes

Cook's note:

The best way to keep fresh asparagus for a long while in the refrigerator is to slice off the stems and then stand them in a bowl with a couple of inches of water in the bottom. It keeps for a very long time this way. Add water as necessary.

I used olive oil rather than the cooking spray and set my oven timer for 10 minutes - when it came out of the oven I was discouraged. Uh-oh, I thought. Hubs will never go for this shriveled up, dried-up looking asparagus, so I sliced him up a tomato as a back-up. Truth be told, I didn't think it would work for me either. But surprise, surprise, it was delicious! Roasting it with the Parmesan rather than sprinkling it on afterward is what made this so interesting and different. Still, next time I'd start off setting that timer for a few minutes less.

These are delicious; you can really make people fight over asparagus! Roasted asparagus is one of my all time favorites. But the flavor is greatly enhanced by allowing the stalks to caramelize in a hot oven. So I crank the oven to 550 degrees or I use the grill outside. It may seem excessive, but trust me, you want to try this variation. Use a rimmed baking sheet. (Never use a glass casserole above 425 degrees). Buy stalks no thicker than a number two pencil. Trim off the bottom ~third of the stalk so you're left with only the tender end. Forget garlic - it will burn. Toss the room temperature stalks in some (~1/8 cup) olive oil, kosher salt, pepper and a bit of some freshly ground nutmeg. Nutmeg is one of those secret ingredients that disappears into the food but points-up the flavor of the vegetable. (Try it on spinach, too) NOTE: lay the asparagus side-by-side on the pan in a single layer or they will create steam and not caramelize. Right before dinner, put them in the oven. In 6 or 7 minutes they'll be slightly crispy. You will make some smoke so you'll need the kitchen exhaust fan on high. Parmigiano Reggiano is optional. I use a rasp to create a snowy texture, and then sprinkle it as soon as they come out of the oven. It melts instantly. But it's almost like 'Gilding the Lilly' because caramelized asparagus has plenty of flavor as-is.

A wonderful side dish that is simple to make. In a separate nonstick pan, sautéed 1/3 cup pine nuts until golden, about 4 minutes. Used them to garnish the roasted asparagus along with a touch of freshly squeezed lemon juice.

*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

**Nutrient information is not available for all ingredients. Amount is based on available nutrient data.

(-)Information is not currently available for this nutrient. If you are following a medically restrictive diet, please consult your doctor or registered dietitian before preparing this recipe for personal consumption.